Diane Friedman Ciral, a lifelong Chicago resident noted for her community involvement and vibrant spirit, died on June 21, 2026. Born November 27, 1934, in Hyde Park, Ciral was known for her commitment to civic engagement, volunteerism, and cultural activities throughout the city. Her efforts included helping resettle Vietnamese refugees in 1975, sponsoring a family of seven with whom she sustained a lasting friendship. Ciral also had a passion for art, music, literature, and hosted gatherings for family and friends. She was married to her husband Shevlin, affectionately called Shevy, for more than 66 years until his passing in 2023. She is survived by her children Jody Ciral Williams and Dan Flip Ciral, grandchildren Ryan Williams, Nathan Ciral, Gordon Ciral, Monica Fishbein, Sophie Fishbein, Sebastian Sax, and her caregiver and friend Elmo Rosales. Memorial donations may be directed to the Greater Chicago Food Depository or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Richard A. Gavel, 81, passed away recently. He was the beloved husband of Elisabeth (nee Briley) and father to Debra Barrett and Richard M. Gavel. He is also survived by grandchildren Jaclyn Montes and Anthony Barrett, and great-grandchild Nadine Barrett. Funeral services were scheduled at Lawn Funeral Home in Orland Park, Illinois, with interment at Mount Vernon Memorial Estates.
Kenneth M. "Pete" Henderson Jr. died on May 30 in Evanston, Illinois, at the age of 95. A lifelong contributor to the communities of Winnetka and Evanston, Henderson was recognized for his extensive career and public service. After graduating from Dartmouth College in 1951 and serving as a U.S. Navy lieutenant, he held positions including plant manager at Inland Steel Products, vice president at Booz, Allen & Hamilton, Associate Dean at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, and executive director of Chicago United. Henderson was also active in numerous community organizations such as the Winnetka Board of Education and the Evanston Community Foundation. He is survived by his wife Jean, their combined seven children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A memorial service is planned for August 1 at the First United Methodist Church of Evanston. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Evanston Community Foundation or Dartmouth College.
Jay Landman, born February 8, 1943, died June 14, 2026. A Chicago native and successful real estate developer, Landman built a thriving business through Wrightwood Developments. He was married to Carol Gerhardt, with whom he shared a lifelong partnership and spiritual journey, including founding the Bodhi Path Buddhist Center in Natural Bridge, Virginia, under the guidance of Tibetan Master Kunzig Shamar Rinpoche. Landman was known for his adventurous spirit, enjoying motorcycle rides, skiing, cooking, and running marathons. A celebration of his life will be held in November, and donations can be made to the Natural Bridge Bodhi Path Center.
Walter James Larkin, 74, of Northbrook, Illinois, passed away after a career in the insurance industry, primarily at Arthur J. Gallagher & Company. He was known for his dedication to family, close friendships dating back to childhood, and a warm personality marked by kindness and humor. Larkin is survived by his wife Judy, children Jack Kidd and Danny Larkin, and grandchildren. A visitation was held at St. Norbert’s Church in Northbrook, followed by a funeral mass. Memorial contributions were welcomed to charities of choice.
Walter C. “Skip” Rache Jr., 79, a U.S. Army Reservist and Naperville resident since 1979, died June 19, 2026. Born in Chicago on February 4, 1947, Rache formerly lived in Chicago and Woodridge, Illinois. Arrangements were managed by Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home in Naperville. Further details regarding services are available through the funeral home.
